Originally posted by Glenn
I have read about experiments where entire atoms and even whole molecules were held in a state of quantum superposition. It wasn't until an observation was made that these molecules left their indeterminate state. If whole atoms and molecules can exist in quantum superposition, does theory prohibit even more complex structures of matter from existing in a superposition as well?
-Glenn
Do you have some links about this? Well, I'm very interested in this subject, because long time ago I've discussed with one physics prof. about possibility of that kind superposition, and if you\re righ, I was right :)Originally posted by Glenn
I have read about experiments where entire atoms and even whole molecules were held in a state of quantum superposition. It wasn't until an observation was made that these molecules left their indeterminate state. If whole atoms and molecules can exist in quantum superposition, does theory prohibit even more complex structures of matter from existing in a superposition as well?
-Glenn
Quantum superposition is a principle in quantum mechanics which states that a particle can exist in multiple states or locations at the same time until it is observed or measured.
In the context of molecules, quantum superposition refers to the idea that the atoms within a molecule can exist in multiple energy states simultaneously. This can have an impact on the properties and behavior of the molecule.
In classical physics, a particle can only exist in one state or location at a time. However, in quantum mechanics, particles can exist in multiple states or locations at the same time, as described by superposition.
Quantum superposition plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of particles and molecules at the atomic and subatomic level. It is also essential in fields such as quantum computing and quantum cryptography.
While quantum superposition is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics, its effects are not easily observable in everyday life. It is most noticeable at the atomic and subatomic level, and its effects are often only observed in controlled laboratory settings.